Tom Watson Eyes The British Open

Kansas City’s Tom Watson shot an even-par 70 Thursday in the first round of the U.S. Senior Open championship, only three shots behind the seven co-leaders. Watson nearly won the British Open four years ago at the age of 59 and, in the opinion of one his peers, has a shot at winning it again.

As one of Tom Watson’s playing partners, Colin Montgomerie marveled at how well Watson plays while on the verge of turning 64.

“He has every chance to do well again as he did at Turnberrry in 2009,” said Montgomerie. “He’s a great competitor and remains that way.”

But Watson knows he must pace himself better and avoid the excessive heat when he can.

“I was worn out. I shouldn’t have gone 18 on Tuesday, a 103 heat index,” said Watson. “But I’m okay.”

Watson is on the second leg of playing competitive golf for four straight weeks.